Divisions, divides and cultures

Divisions, divides and cultures. Divisions, divides and cultures. It seems to have been my mantra of the last couple of months. And apparently I’m not the only person somehow entranced by these topics.

On the other side of things, I’ve talked ad nauseam about the cycling world’s habit of dividing up into subcultures. Truth be told, I don’t really think this is a “cycling world” issue as much as it is just human nature. Us versus them seems to be an innate human tenancy.

To many they [commuting and culture] may sound like the same thing, pedalling hand in hand down the cycle track. Unfortunately, there appears to be a clear-cut division. It seems more often than not to be a regional or even cultural divide. [Copenhagenize]

I can definitely recognize the distinction that is being alluded to in this post. I recognize it enough that I can probably draw some very quick conclusions (based entirely on subjective stereotypes) about which side of that division a particular person is on.

But I’m not going to do that…

In fact, one of the first comments to the Copenhagenize article from poster ‘BG‘ is:

Oh, boy — this again. Now, listen: as with the VC debate, there’s no need to be so divisive. Most “bicycle commuters” in the Anglo countries are simply doing what works best right now, in the physical and cultural environment they’ve got. That does not mean that they’re opposed to changes that could bring about a bicycle culture. Bicycle culture, as you define it, is a good goal. I’m working for it. But I don’t see why that should prevent the geeky hobbyists from enjoying their geeky hobby.

I’m making the first of my News Years resolutions. I’m going to work to recognize the different perspectives of folks, without attempting to divide based on perspective. The vast array of different uses of bicycles, and the opinions of those that use them, is testament to the amazing utility, functionality and versatility of the bicycle.

Ross Del Duca is the Editor and wanna-be photographer for JustAnotherCyclist.com and related websites. He is an avid cyclist that uses the bike not only for recreation, but also for general fitness and daily commuting and errands. He has an inclination to be "competitive" - but currently isn't. Ross has been running websites professionally in various capacities since about 1995, and started his first cycling blog back in 2007 (it was called sacrafrisco.com, if you want to go digging).

Ross is a father of 3. While not a defining fact of his life, Ross is also a Type 1 diabetic.